Tithing, Faith, and Nehemiah’s Example with Coach Carrero

In the bustling world of education, where lesson plans and student needs constantly vie for our attention, it can be easy to lose sight of the deeper spiritual foundations that should undergird our work. But as Christian teachers and leaders, we are called to a higher purpose - one that requires us to tend not just to the minds of our students, but to the condition of our own hearts.

In this episode of the Gospel and Gradebooks podcast, hosts Jamie, Timm, and special guest Coach Jeff Carrero dive headfirst into the often-contentious topic of tithing. Far from a dry, legalistic discussion, their conversation weaves together biblical wisdom, personal experiences, and a passionate pursuit of spiritual renewal - all through the lens of Nehemiah's remarkable story.

As the guys kick off the discussion, it's clear that their perspectives on tithing are nuanced and thoughtful. Rather than approaching it as a rigid, compulsory requirement, they see it as a heart posture - one that reflects our trust in God and our willingness to honor Him with our finances.

"The New Testament nowhere commands or even recommends Christians submit to a legalistic tithing system," explains Coach Carrero. "The New Testament tells us to give what we have decided in our hearts to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver."

This sentiment is echoed in 2 Corinthians 9:7, which states, "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

• The focus shifts from a rigid, one-size-fits-all percentage to a posture of the heart - giving generously and joyfully, as an act of worship and trust in God.
• This aligns with the biblical principle that we are called to put God first in all areas of our lives, including our finances. As Timm points out, "If we say He is first in our hearts, then He must be first in our finances, our families, and our faith."
• The guys acknowledge that tithing can be a sensitive and divisive topic, but they emphasize the importance of approaching it with wisdom, grace, and an understanding that each person's circumstances and convictions may differ.

As the conversation turns to the book of Nehemiah, the guys unpack the powerful lessons we can glean from this remarkable biblical figure. Nehemiah, a cupbearer to the king, was deeply burdened by the news of Jerusalem's broken walls and the plight of his people. Rather than ignoring the problem or waiting for someone else to act, Nehemiah responded with bold, Spirit-led leadership.

• Nehemiah's first step was to turn to God in prayer, mourning and fasting before seeking the king's permission to rebuild the walls. This posture of humility and dependence on the Lord set the tone for the entire endeavor.
• Despite facing fierce opposition from surrounding nations and even from within his own people, Nehemiah remained steadfast, calling the workers to arm themselves and pray as they labored. His unwavering faith and courage inspired the people, and the walls were completed in just 52 days.
• But Nehemiah's work didn't stop there. He went on to lead a spiritual revival, instructing the people in God's Word and calling them to repentance and obedience. Under his leadership, the Israelites rediscovered long-forgotten festivals and holidays, and their hearts were stirred to worship the Lord.

As the guys reflect on Nehemiah's example, they can't help but draw parallels to the challenges facing Christian educators and leaders today. Just as Nehemiah was burdened for the state of his people, we too are called to be keenly aware of the spiritual needs in our schools, our communities, and our own hearts.

• Nehemiah's unwavering commitment to prayer and dependence on God's leading is a powerful model for us. In a world that often values efficiency and self-reliance, Nehemiah's example reminds us to pause, seek God's wisdom, and trust in His timing and provision.
• Like Nehemiah, we must be willing to take bold, courageous action, even in the face of opposition. Whether it's standing firm on biblical principles, advocating for our students, or modeling Christ-like character, our lives and classrooms should reflect a deep, unshakable faith.
• Nehemiah's heart for spiritual revival is a crucial reminder that our work extends far beyond the academic realm. As Christian educators, we have the privilege and responsibility of nurturing the hearts and souls of our students, pointing them towards the transformative power of God's Word.

As the podcast episode draws to a close, the guys are left with a renewed sense of purpose and a challenge to their fellow Christian educators and leaders. Just as Nehemiah's story inspired a physical and spiritual rebuilding in Jerusalem, we too are called to be agents of transformation in our own spheres of influence.

• The guys encourage listeners to dive deeper into the book of Nehemiah, exploring chapters 7 through 13 to glean further insights on the power of revival and obedience to God's Word.
• They emphasize the importance of perseverance, recognizing that the path to spiritual renewal is rarely smooth or straightforward. Like Nehemiah, we must be willing to go back, make corrections, and keep our eyes fixed on the Lord.
• Ultimately, the guys' hope is that this conversation will inspire a renewed commitment to stewardship, sacrifice, and bold faith - not just in our personal lives, but in our classrooms, our schools, and our communities.

As Christian educators, we have been entrusted with a sacred calling - to nurture the minds and hearts of the next generation. Through the powerful example of Nehemiah, we are reminded that this work is not just about academics, but about building lives and communities that reflect the transformative love and grace of Jesus Christ.

So let us heed the call to rebuild and revive, trusting in God's provision, leaning on His strength, and boldly proclaiming the good news in all that we do. For as Nehemiah demonstrated, when we place our faith in the Lord and respond with obedience and courage, He will use us to accomplish far more than we could ever imagine.

Find all of our socials here Subscribe to gospelandgradebooks.com